Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Construction Hot Takes
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
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| Is Buyout Just a Nicer Word for Shorting Your Subs? | 01 Oct 2026 | 00:11:11 | |
Is buyout just a nicer word for shorting your subs? Sometimes, but it doesn’t have to be. Buying the work competitively is the job, and it crosses a line when a GC takes a project without enough money in it and pushes the shortfall down to the trades. If you are a subcontractor who has watched a buyout call land on your margin, or a project manager handed a fee that you cannot see a path to, this is the conversation both sides usually have separately. | |||
| Whose Fault Is a $25M Overrun, Estimating or Engineering? | 11 Sep 2026 | 00:07:22 | |
How do you lose $25 million on one job? By building exactly to the construction spec while a second engineering spec, signed off by your own leadership, sat unread until the systems were turned on. If you run design-build work, sit between an engineering department and an estimating department, or have ever assumed someone upstream read the owner's performance criteria, this is the failure that nobody catches on a walkthrough.
Chapters: 00:00 – Cold Open and Episode Introduction 5 Reasons Construction Projects Fail: https://blog.ascentconsults.com/5-reasons-construction-projects-fail | |||
| Will AI Replace Your Superintendent? | 04 Sep 2026 | 00:12:43 | |
Will AI replace the superintendent who won't use it? Not completely, but it could help your most experienced employees perform better and share their knowledge. A superintendent who knows how to build keeps the job. The one who also uses these tools gets better information can make the same calls sooner.
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| Job Costing Fundamentals: Are You Actually Making Money on Each Job? | 27 Aug 2026 | 00:25:02 | |
You can feel the money moving. You can't tell if any single job is making it. In this episode, Greg Gorman breaks down job cost management and why hidden jobs that quietly bleed can still occur in a profitable company. Plus the three fundamentals that make job costing work and why you can still save a job at 40 to 50 percent complete (but rarely at 75). Chapters: For fractional CFO support: https://ascentconsults.com/fractional-cfo/ Greg Gorman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregory-gorman-mba-115ba34/ Check out all the Construction Hot Takes episodes on the Ascent website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Follow Ascent Consulting on: Follow the Construction Hot Takes Podcast on: | |||
| Your Data is All There. Why Can't You See It in One Place? | 13 Aug 2026 | 00:25:28 | |
In this episode, Adam Cooper and Jeff Robertson break down how contractors go from siloed systems to one source of truth for their data, why Procore is built for projects (not company management), and the three ways to actually connect your stack. Including: Off-the-shelf connectors, custom middleware, and a data lake, plus where AI is heading over the next 12 to 24 months. See if your data's ready for AI: https://ascentconsults.com/get-your-ai-score-card Adam Cooper: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamcooper/ Check out all the Construction Hot Takes episodes on the Ascent website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Follow Ascent Consulting on: Follow the Construction Hot Takes Podcast on: | |||
| Do We Even Need General Contractors? Reacting to Your Construction Hot Takes | 06 Aug 2026 | 00:27:41 | |
Holding your hot takes to the fire in this episode, Adam Cooper, Jeff Robertson, and Greg Gorman take on what our audience actually posted: Do we even need general contractors? Does safety paperwork do anything? Does one platform really fix the chaos? Plus the E-Myth, GCs with skin in the game, one big job versus ten small ones, and whether LEED earns its cost. Chapters: For operational design and process help: https://ascentconsults.com/operational-design/ Adam Cooper: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamcooper/ Check out all the Construction Hot Takes episodes on the Ascent website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Follow Ascent Consulting on: Follow the Construction Hot Takes Podcast on: | |||
| CFO vs. Controller: Which Does Your Business Actually Need? | 30 Jul 2026 | 00:27:26 | |
In this episode, Greg Gorman and Jeff Robertson breaks down the key differences between a CFO and a Controller, why so many growing construction companies hire without clear expectations, and how defining the right role can lead to better financial decisions and long-term growth. Chapters: Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| Don't rely on AI to fix this part of your business. It makes it WORSE. | 23 Jul 2026 | 00:30:54 | |
In this episode, Jeff Robertson and Adam Cooper uncover why adding more software and even AI won't solve your biggest operational problems. If your systems don't communicate, your data is scattered, and your team is stuck entering the same information multiple times. Learn why integration matters, what AI can and can't do, and how Ascent Consulting helps construction companies evaluate, simplify, and integrate your technology stack to improve efficiency and support long-term growth. Chapters: Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| Why Most ERP Implementations Fail Before They Begin | 16 Jul 2026 | 00:25:16 | |
In this episode, Greg Gorman, Jeff Robertson, and Adam Cooper get into why companies change their ERP's and why the "why" has to come before the "what." Is the need to change stemming from reporting you can't get, systems that don't talk, functionality you're faking with manual work? Plus, the real reasons behind a new ERP, questions to settle before you sit through a single demo, and why no system can handle it all. Chapters: Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| Ops vs. Estimating: The $200,000 Miss (And How to End the Tension) | 16 Jul 2026 | 00:31:44 | |
Why is there so much friction between the field and the office? In this episode of Construction Hot Takes, we dive deep into the healthy (and sometimes not-so-healthy) tension between Operations and Estimating. We discuss common pain points—from conceptual estimating hurdles to massive takeoff misses—and share proven solutions like formal project handoffs and staff cross-training. Whether you’re a project manager or an estimator, learn how to bridge the gap and deliver more profitable projects. Chapters: Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for alerts on our new episodes! | |||
| The Key to A.I. for Construction Companies is NOT A Software Choice... | 07 Jul 2026 | 00:31:09 | |
In this episode, Jeff Robertson, Adam Cooper, and Greg Gorman discuss why AI readiness starts long before choosing an AI tool. They explain why clean data, consistent processes, and strong operational foundations are the keys to successful AI adoption in construction. Ascent Consulting helps construction companies prepare for AI by improving data quality, streamlining operational processes, and creating technology strategies that support long-term growth. Chapters:
Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| How To Scale Your $5m-$10m Construction Business | 06 Jul 2026 | 00:25:13 | |
In this episode, Adam Cooper, Jeff Robertson, and Gregory Gorman dive into a topic that is so interesting: how to scale a smaller construction firm. Typically working with larger construction firms, they don't get to talk about the unique challenges presented by scaling a 7-figure construction company, but they get into it on this one. We really hope you enjoy, and are curious what other questions you may have for the hosts. Maybe we'll respond to your comment next!
Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| Owning Your Narrative in the Age of Artificial Intelligence (in Construction Firms) | 03 Jul 2026 | 00:25:40 | |
In this episode, Katherine Cooper brings her deep knowledge of A.I. in construction industry digital marketing to deliver a powerful message. Joined by Adam Cooper, she discusses the ways in which construction industry leadership must pivot as they consider how to adapt to the new way of the digital marketplace. You will not want to miss this one. Chapters: Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| Adam, Jeff, and Greg React to HOT TAKES About The Construction Business | 25 Jun 2026 | 00:24:52 | |
Everyone loved Part 1, and Part 2, so we are doing Part 3! In this episode, Adam, Jeff, and Greg react to five HOT TAKES about the construction industry and decide whether they agree or disagree. You’re not going to want to miss this one. Comment with any takes you feel like deserve a reaction and dissection! Chapters: Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| From Journeyman Electrician to 350+ Companies Helped: How Adam Cooper Built Ascent | 18 Jun 2026 | 00:38:44 | |
Big contractors don't scale by accident — they scale through systems. Adam Cooper spent 20 years inside the largest electrical contractors in the country before founding Ascent to bring that behind-the-curtain playbook to the mid-market. In this episode: why your problems aren't unique, why the owner is usually the bottleneck, and the view of how a real construction business runs. Chapters:
Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| Choosing the Right Hammer: Approach YOUR Construction Problem the Right Way | 11 Jun 2026 | 00:16:22 | |
In this gameshow edition of the Construction Hot Takes podcast, we play a game that illustrates the reality of many construction firms looking to grow. In the construction consulting world, those that are "in A.I." feel like they can solve everything with A.I. but it's often much more nuanced and A.I. can't solve every issue. So which "hammer" (A.I., Procore, Ops) will match which "nail" (business scenarios)? Hope you enjoy! Chapters: 02:52 Case Studies: WIP, RFIs, and Estimating 08:31 Predictive Safety AI Success Story 11:15 Breaking Down Data Islands & Bid Roulette 14:59 Lightning Round & Key Takeaways Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| New Software Gone WRONG: The BIGGEST Tech Issue for Construction Companies | 04 Jun 2026 | 00:17:49 | |
In this episode, Adam Cooper and Jeff Robertson talk about an all-too-common issue found amongst growing construction companies. They purchase the latest software with all the bells and whistles which seem to promise smooth sailing, but upon installing into the business, ends up being a source of MORE work, not less. Software misalignment can take something that was supposed to be a good thing, and turn it into a nightmare. What are the common pitfalls? How does a firm go about fixing the misalignment that is the root of a lot of construction firm issues? This is an important one. We hope you enjoy! Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| Your Subcontractor Might Be About to Burn You | 28 May 2026 | 00:17:22 | |
In this episode of Construction Hot Takes, host Jeff Robertson dives into the often-overlooked but critical process of subcontractor pre-qualification. From identifying red flags like disappearing labor and aggressive billing to understanding key financial metrics, Jeff explains why every project manager must be a risk manager first. Learn how to look past professional relationships and focus on the data to prevent subcontractor default before it starts Chapters: 00:00 Subcontractor Default and the Power of Pre-qualification Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| Automation vs. A.I. in Construction: How To Navigate | 21 May 2026 | 00:28:05 | |
In this episode, Jeff Robertson and Gregory Gorman deconstruct how construction firms could be thinking about automation and artificial intelligence in construction. We hope this brings lots of value to your construction organization! Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| How To Achieve Your Construction Company’s Growth Targets In Months, Not Years (Strategic Planning) | 14 May 2026 | 00:24:28 | |
In this episode of Construction Hot Takes, our hosts, Adam Cooper and Jeff Robertson, break down why strategic business planning is often the first thing construction leaders ignore—and why it’s the most critical for long-term survival. From the "engineering mindset" trap to identifying actionable milestones, learn how to move past reactive decision-making and build a roadmap that survives economic shifts. Hope you enjoy this episode! Chapters:
Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| 3 Reasons Your CFO Hates You (And It’s Costing You Money) | 01 May 2026 | 00:31:46 | |
If your CFO feels like the enemy… it’s probably not them. Most business owners unknowingly create friction with finance—and it shows up in missed profits, bad decisions, and constant tension. In this episode, we break down the 3 biggest mistakes leaders make that drive their CFO crazy—and how fixing them can unlock serious growth. Chapters: Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for alerts on our new episodes! | |||
| Construction Industry HOT TAKES REACTIONS: Part 2 | 23 Apr 2026 | 00:19:49 | |
Everyone loved Part 1, so we are doing Part 2! In this episode, Adam, Jeff, and Greg react to five HOT TAKES about the construction industry and decide whether they agree or disagree. You’re not going to want to miss this one. Comment with any takes you feel like deserve a reaction and dissection! Chapters: 0:00 – Introduction: The Reaction Segment Returns
Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for alerts on our new episodes! | |||
| 3 Systems to Scale Your Construction Company (in 2026) | 16 Apr 2026 | 00:31:31 | |
In this episode, Adam Cooper and Jeff Robertson bring their decades of experience to lay out 3 of the top processes necessary for a construction firm to grow. We hope you enjoy this one! Chapters: 0:00 – Scaling Preconstruction & Estimating Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| Construction Industry HOT TAKES REACTIONS: Part 1 | 09 Apr 2026 | 00:21:48 | |
In this episode, Adam, Jeff, and Greg react to four HOT TAKES about the construction industry and decide whether they agree or disagree. You’re not going to want to miss this one. Comment with any takes you feel like deserve a reaction and dissection! Chapters: 0:05 – Segment Intro: The Rules of Engagement
Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for alerts on our new episodes! | |||
| 3 Ways AI Can TRANSFORM Your Construction Business Today | 26 Mar 2026 | 00:06:59 | |
In this episode, Jeff Robertson breaks down the three ways construction companies can leverage AI to boost productivity, eliminate data silos, and make smarter decisions on the job site. Chapters: Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| AI in Construction: Practical Use Cases for Every Contractor | 19 Mar 2026 | 00:33:06 | |
In this episode, Jeff Robertson dives into AI in construction, breaking down adoption tiers, practical use cases, and how contractors of all sizes can leverage AI to protect margins, streamline processes, and grow their business. Chapters: Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| State of A.I. in Construction (2026 Q1 Update) | 12 Mar 2026 | 00:25:16 | |
A.I. is affecting every single facet of the construction industry. We are committing to doing a quarterly update, and this is the Q1 2026 State of A.I. update from the Construction Hot Takes podcast. Here, we talk through 5 key updates in the world of construction A.I. Chapters: Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| How A.I. COMPLETELY Changes the Monthly Close Process for Construction Accounting | 05 Mar 2026 | 00:16:08 | |
In this episode, Gregory Gorman draws on his industry leading expertise in construction accounting especially as it has been dramatically affected by A.I., specifically how A.I. is enabling the continuous close. Chapters: 0:00 – Intro to Market Trends Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| How Your Construction Firm Gets Found Online in 2026: AEO, GEO, SEO | 26 Feb 2026 | 00:20:24 | |
In this episode, Katherine Cooper talks about the new wave of search in 2026 that is powered by A.I. While many have already familiarized themselves with Search Engine Optimization, Answer Engine Optimization and Generative Engine Optimization remain untapped by most even prominent firms. Be sure to check this episode out and walk away with some of the key next steps that your construction firm can implement into your marketing strategies in 2026. Chapters: 00:00 – Search vs. Generative Optimization Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| Intro to Private Equity for Construction ($10m-100m) | 19 Feb 2026 | 00:10:02 | |
In this episode, Gregory Gorman and Adam Cooper do a quick episode on the basics of private equity for construction businesses. Having plenty of experience working with construction firms with interest in working with private equity, this can provide you with some context. If you have any specific questions Adam or Gregory will be able to speak in depth with you about your concerns so please reach out. Chapters Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| Bridging the Gap Between Estimating and Operations (ft. Joshua Gregory) | 12 Feb 2026 | 00:31:31 | |
In this episode we are joined by Joshua Gregory, VP at Alston Construction, and friend of Adam Cooper since high school. They draw from their respective experiences in the world of construction to talk about the divide between pre-construction estimation and post-launch operations, and the reasons one may want to appreciate both sides no matter which side one works on. Hope you enjoy this episode. Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| Do NOT Start Your Construction Firm's ERP Change Process (Without Considering These 3 Things) | 05 Feb 2026 | 00:42:26 | |
In this episode, Jeff Robertson, Gregory Gorman, and Adam Cooper talk about the reality of ERP implementation. Especially if you are considering this for your construction organization, this episode will be highly valuable for you as the conversation goes through the many facets of consideration that must occur in order for a successful, smooth changeover to occur. Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| Sales vs. Marketing vs. Business Development in Residential Construction | 29 Jan 2026 | 00:19:34 | |
In this episode, Katherine Cooper and Adam Cooper talk about the functions of sales, marketing, and business development within the context of residential construction firms. Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| How A.I. Is Being Used in Construction Accounting | 22 Jan 2026 | 00:24:49 | |
In this episode, our resident finance expert Gregory Gorman and operations expert Jeff Robertson talk about how artificial intelligence is transforming the world of construction accounting. We get really specific in this episode, so we hope you find value in this conversation. Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for alerts on our new episodes! | |||
| Sales vs. Marketing vs. Business Development in Commercial Construction | 15 Jan 2026 | 00:20:14 | |
In this episode, Katherine Cooper and Adam Cooper discuss the differences between sales, marketing, and business development within the context of a commercial construction firm. Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| Bridging the Gap Between Finance and Operations in Your Construction Business | 08 Jan 2026 | 00:43:31 | |
Jeff Robertson and Greg Gorman settle the long-standing feud between Operations and Finance. They explore the root causes of friction between the two departments and show how building trust and implementing the right processes can bring both sides together. There is a great deal of time, money, and workplace productivity to be gained when Operations and Finance see eye-to-eye. Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| Top 3 Things to Know About Picking Your Construction Firm’s ERP (Part 1) | 18 Dec 2025 | 00:38:35 | |
Jeff Robertson, Greg Gorman, and Adam Cooper discuss the selection process for a new ERP. It’s important to have a clear understanding of your business needs and what you expect from the new system. Implementing an ERP is a lengthy process, which makes choosing the right one the most critical step. You’ll also need to define the timeline and resources required to fully learn, implement, and go live on your new ERP. The guys go into great detail on everything you need to know.
Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| The Best Construction Projects vs. The Worst Construction Projects | 27 Nov 2025 | 00:14:03 | |
Adam Cooper and Jeff Robertson are two of the co-hosts of the Construction Hot Takes Podcast, but besides being prolific podcasters, they have a combined 6+ decades of experience in the construction industry. In this episode, they reminisce on some of the best and worst construction projects they've been on in hopes to share with listeners in pains or inspire them regarding the growth that can be experienced. Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| The Culture Problem of The Construction Industry | 13 Nov 2025 | 00:38:29 | |
The construction industry in 2025 finds itself at a juncture of culture clashing and generational divide. The old guard is the Gen X workforce who have come up through the ranks and are now in leadership positions, but navigate the world much differently than the Gen Z workforce entering and navigating the construction industry. These leads to big hairy questions and uncomfortable feelings from both sides. Is Gen Z lazy? In this episode, we explore this dynamic which we've witnessed firsthand and with our clients on a day to day basis.
Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| 3 Marketing Mistakes Construction Companies Are Making in 2025 | 06 Nov 2025 | 00:16:38 | |
After working with construction firm after construction firm on marketing... we see the same marketing mistakes over and over again. So in this episode of the podcast, Katherine Cooper gets unfiltered on the big mistakes even large construction companies are making very frequently. Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| Are Construction Companies Viewing A.I. All Wrong? | 03 Nov 2025 | 00:24:48 | |
Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| Building Gaskin Electric: How Chris and Lean Lead With Faith, Grit, and Growth | 09 Oct 2025 | 00:43:41 | |
Electrical work is often the last thing noticed on a job site, but it is the first thing missed when it is not done right. Behind the wires, conduits, and deadlines is a story of resilience, faith, and a husband-and-wife team who built their company by refusing to settle. In this episode of Construction Hot Takes, we sit down with Chris and Lean Gaskin, the leaders of Gaskin Electric. Their journey began with a layoff two weeks before Christmas, while navigating a pregnancy and their young son’s cancer diagnosis. What could have ended their story became the start of a business built on courage, hard lessons, and relentless determination. Since then, Chris and Lean have grown Gaskin Electric to more than 20 employees, tackling complex projects across Georgia and beyond. From moving states to shutting down and restarting their company, to balancing leadership as spouses and parents, their story is about building not just a business but also a stronger marriage and family along the way. In this episode, you will hear: ● Chris’s journey from the trades to starting Gaskin Electric after a layoff If you are looking for a raw and real story about building a construction business with grit, faith, and family at the center, this episode is for you. #Construction #ElectricalContractor #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #FamilyBusiness
Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| From Side Hustle to $20M Empire: How Charlie Dallavalle Jr. Built Painting Plus, Siding Plus & Gutters Plus | 25 Sep 2025 | 00:52:33 | |
What if you could guarantee quality across every layer of a home’s exterior — paint, siding, gutters, roofs, decks, porches — without the chaos of endless subs and callbacks? In this episode of Construction Hot Takes, we sit down with Charlie Dallavalle Jr., founder of Painting Plus, Siding Plus, and Gutters Plus. Charlie started as a college side hustle, painting homes in his neighborhood, and grew it into one of the Southeast’s most trusted exterior renovation companies. Over 27 years, he’s completed more than 5,000 projects, built one of the largest HardiePlank installation teams in the country, and won the prestigious James Hardie President’s Club Award year after year. Charlie’s story isn’t just about building homes — it’s about building systems, trust, and a reputation that’s stood strong through decades of industry change. You’ll hear: ● The origin story of Painting Plus and how Charlie went from ladders to leadership If you’re in construction, trades, or entrepreneurship, this episode is a blueprint for scaling with quality, resilience, and community impact. #Construction #Contractors #ExteriorRenovation #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #Painting #Siding #Gutters
Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| The Real Reason Projects Blow Their Budgets (and It’s Not the Client’s Fault) | 18 Sep 2025 | 00:36:39 | |
Budgets don’t just vanish — they’re lost step by step, phase by phase. And here’s the uncomfortable truth: most of the time, it’s not the client’s fault. In this episode of Construction Hot Takes, Adam and Jeff break down the real internal reasons projects spiral over budget — from business development overpromises to estimating misses, sloppy buyouts, and execution mistakes in the field. You’ll hear candid stories (including a $25M loss on a design-build project) and lessons learned the hard way about where budgets actually get blown. What we cover: ● How business development overpromises set projects up to fail This isn’t about blaming the owner — it’s about owning the process. If you’re a GC, trade contractor, or construction leader, this episode is your roadmap to spotting the hidden risks and keeping projects on budget. #Construction #GeneralContractor #Budgeting #Forecasting #ProjectManagement #ConstructionBusiness Check out our whole catalog of Construction Hot Takes episodes on our website! https://ascentconsults.com/construction-hot-takes-podcast/ Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| Leading Through Disaster: How Beth Toenies Scales 1-800-BOARDUP with Urgency & Empathy | 11 Sep 2025 | 00:17:47 | |
Imagine standing outside your home just hours after a fire. The structure is damaged, smoke still lingers, and you don’t know what to do next. Who shows up to help you in that moment? That’s where 1-800-BOARDUP comes in. And Leading the charge is Beth Toenies, Chief Operating Officer of the company that’s turned chaos into clarity for homeowners across North America. With 134 franchise locations serving more than 182 million people, Beth has built a reputation as both a decorated executive and a culture-driven leader. From securing burned-out homes to scaling operations across the U.S. and Canada, she has transformed the restoration industry with urgency, systems, and empathy. In this episode, Beth shares: ● How she stumbled into restoration and why the mission keeps her here If you want to learn how to lead teams, scale franchises, and deliver hope at the worst moments of people’s lives — this episode will change how you view restoration, leadership, and resilience. #Leadership #Franchising #Restoration #EmergencyResponse #Construction #Culture
Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| Why General Contractors REALLY Lose Money (and How to Stop It) | 14 Aug 2025 | 00:25:16 | |
Margins don’t just disappear — they get chipped away by bad estimates, buyout mistakes, schedule delays, and one of the biggest myths in construction: thinking “remaining budget” is the same as a forecast.
If you’re a GC, sub, or anyone in construction, this is a no-BS guide to keeping your budget on track — and your profits where they belong. #Construction #GeneralContractor #Budgeting #Forecasting #ProjectManagement #ConstructionBusiness
Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| Hard Hats, Soft Culture : The Lie Behind Construction Safety | 24 Jul 2025 | 00:19:40 | |
Most construction companies talk a big game about safety. PPE, compliance forms, toolbox talks—but why do crews still cut corners? In this episode, Adam and Jeff tackle the uncomfortable truth: safety programs don’t create safety culture—leadership does. They share raw stories from the field, call out lazy thinking, and unpack why most “compliance-first” approaches are doomed to fail. If you’re a GC, superintendent, or project manager trying to keep your people safe without being a babysitter—this one’s for you. What You’ll Learn:
Interested in learning how Ascent's consulting services could potentially help improve your business's operations? 📈 Follow Ascent Consulting on social media! 🤳
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| Cutting Out the GC: Bold Move or Big Mistake? | 10 Jul 2025 | 00:12:25 | |
Do General Contractors still deserve their fee—or are they just expensive middlemen? In this provocative episode, Adam and Jeff tackle a controversial listener question: "Do we even need General Contractors anymore?" With the rise of tech-driven management and self-performing owners, the traditional role of GCs is under scrutiny. Join the debate as they explore:
Are General Contractors outdated—or more essential than ever? Listen and decide. Key Insights:
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| Whose Budget is Harder: Subs vs. GCs (and Why Subs Might Finally Win) | 24 Jun 2025 | 00:16:58 | |
Managing your construction budget is tough—but who's got it tougher? Subs or GCs? Adam (former trade contractor) and Jeff (former GC) face off in this episode to settle a classic industry debate: whose project budget is actually harder to manage? You'll hear:
Think you know which side has it worse? You might be surprised. Ready to end the argument? Hit play and decide for yourself. | |||
| When Culture Breaks: The Million Dollar Wake-Up Call | 11 Jun 2025 | 00:20:22 | |
“That Could Never Happen Here…Right?” – A Cautionary Tale of Financial Fraud
What if one trusted employee could quietly put your entire company at risk?
This week on Construction Hot Takes, Adam Cooper and Jeff Robertson dig into a real-life story that could happen in any construction business.
With Greg out on the road, Adam shares a case of financial fraud at a billion-dollar firm, where a regional manager manipulated millions in the books – and nearly brought the whole operation down. Names have been changed, but the lessons are very real.
This episode takes a deeper look into accountability, leadership blind spots, and the silent dangers of a culture where no one feels safe to speak up. Adam and Jeff unpack how poor systems, ignored red flags, and a lack of transparency can cost you everything.
Tune in as we explore: (00:00) Reporting structure and accountability issues (03:45) Was it intentional or just opportunistic? (06:53) A consultant questions the reporting practices (10:33) Why hands-on management still matters (15:01) Cultural training and what accountability really means (18:41) The cost of poor communication
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